Seventeenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

Advancements in technology are inevitable and becoming part of human life in the twenty-first century. In the field of language learning and teaching, the use of technology is increasingly accepted as a valuable tool and integrated into the classroom under the aims of improving and enhancing skills. At Suranaree University of Technology, located in Nakhon Ratchasima Thailand, e-learning and online technology are integrated into some English courses but students still have low English proficiency level. Many researchers pointed out a few main factors contributing to the failure of English language learning and teaching such as unqualified and poorly-trained teachers, poorly-motivated students, learners of mixed abilities in overly large classes, and rare opportunities for student’s exposure to English outside of class time (Dhanasobhon, 2006; ONEC, 2003). In 2018, 260 students at Suranaree University of Technology were surveyed to examine needs and problems in Learning English. They were also asked about the use of technology in enhancing their learning English. The results from questionnaire show that most of the students have difficulties in communication and speaking skills and this crucial issue is needed to be improved. Furthermore, the findings from 40 students in the interview reviewed that to improve students’ speaking and communication skills, students need to overcome their vocabulary problems. Moreover, the students favored to use more technology such as social media, mobile phone, games, and etc. in learning English. One of the suggestions from this study is to develop a course which integrates technology in enhancing English learning.